Succulents vary widely in terms of size, so unless you know the specific species of plants you have in your home, it’s difficult to estimate how big they’ll get. When it comes to succulents, knowledge is king, so the more you know about succulents, the better you’ll be able to predict their mature size.
One of the smallest succulents in the world is Blossfeldia liliputana, a tiny cactus which measures about half an inch in diameter at maturity. Lithops is another petite succulent, that typically stays under 1.5 inches in diameter.
Both Blossfeldia liliputana and Lithops tend to grow in clumps, so rather than a single large plant, you’ll find a group of tiny succulents growing together.
On the other end of the spectrum, there are succulents that can reach incredible sizes. Adansonia digitata, also known as the Baobab tree, is frequently regarded as the largest succulent in the world. Native to Africa, it can reach up to nearly 100 feet in height and 36 feet in diameter.
In North America, the Saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) holds the title of largest succulent. These gigantic cacti can grow upwards of 45 feet tall and when fully hydrated can weigh nearly 5,000 pounds.
These are extreme examples of the diversity of succulents and most species encountered by the average garden will be more manageable sizes, but it’s important to understand the wide range of plants covered by the term ‘succulent.’
Even if you do know the exact species of succulents you have in your collection, their mature sizes can vary according to the care they’re given. Succulents that are grown under ideal conditions will reach larger sizes than those grown in less favorable conditions.
